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Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Maldives Island: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

The Maldives, with its pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, has long been a dream destination for travelers seeking a tropical paradise. While its luxury resorts and overwater villas are renowned, there is so much more to this archipelago than meets the eye. In this article, we will take you on a journey to uncover the hidden gems of Maldives Island, where off-the-beaten-path adventures await.

Exploring Local Islands: Embracing Authentic Maldivian Culture

Beyond the lavish resorts lies a world filled with authentic Maldivian culture waiting to be discovered. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in local life is by visiting the inhabited islands. Unlike resort islands that are privately owned and cater primarily to tourists, these local islands offer a glimpse into everyday life in the Maldives.

Maafushi, for example, is one such island that has gained popularity among travelers seeking an authentic experience. Here, you can stroll through bustling markets, interact with friendly locals, and even indulge in traditional Maldivian cuisine. Don’t forget to visit the island’s mosque and witness the harmonious blending of Islamic traditions with local customs.

For those interested in history and heritage, a visit to Male – the capital city of Maldives – is a must. Explore its narrow streets lined with colorful buildings adorned with intricate woodcarvings. Discover historical landmarks like Hukuru Miskiy Mosque and Sultan Park Museum that offer insights into the rich past of this fascinating island nation.

Diving into Underwater Wonders: Exploring Vibrant Coral Reefs

The Maldives is renowned for its incredible marine biodiversity and vibrant coral reefs teeming with life. While many visitors enjoy snorkeling or diving within resort boundaries, venturing off-the-beaten-path allows you to discover lesser-known dive sites that offer a truly extraordinary experience.

One such hidden gem is Hanifaru Bay, located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This protected marine area is a feeding ground for whale sharks and manta rays, attracting marine enthusiasts from all over the world. Witnessing these gentle giants gracefully glide through the water is an awe-inspiring experience that should not be missed.

Another off-the-beaten-path diving destination is Fuvahmulah Island. Known for its unique geography and diverse marine ecosystem, this island offers encounters with rare underwater species such as tiger sharks, thresher sharks, and even the elusive oceanic manta rays. Dive into the depths of Fuvahmulah’s pristine waters and witness nature’s wonders unfold before your eyes.

Embarking on Island Hopping Adventures: Discovering Untouched Beauty

While most visitors to the Maldives tend to stay within the confines of their chosen resort island, venturing out on an island hopping adventure allows you to witness the untouched beauty of lesser-known islands. These hidden gems offer secluded beaches, lush vegetation, and a sense of serenity that can only be found off-the-beaten-path.

One such hidden gem is Dhigurah Island in South Ari Atoll. Known for its stunning long stretch of beach and vibrant house reef just steps away from shore, this island offers a tranquil escape from the crowds. Snorkel or dive alongside colorful coral formations and encounter marine life such as turtles and reef sharks in their natural habitat.

For those seeking a truly remote experience, a visit to Thoddoo Island is highly recommended. Located in North Ari Atoll, this small agricultural island boasts lush green fields dotted with palm trees and fruit orchards. Explore its quiet beaches or join local farmers in harvesting fruits like watermelons or papayas – an immersive experience that connects you with nature and local traditions.

Preserving Nature: Supporting Sustainable Tourism Initiatives

As responsible travelers, it is essential to support sustainable tourism initiatives that aim to protect the fragile ecosystems of the Maldives. Many off-the-beaten-path destinations are actively engaged in conservation efforts and offer opportunities for visitors to contribute positively.

One such initiative is the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve, which focuses on preserving the area’s unique biodiversity and promoting sustainable development. Visitors can participate in various conservation activities such as coral reef monitoring or even tree planting programs, leaving a positive impact on the environment.

Additionally, several local organizations and resorts have implemented initiatives to reduce plastic waste and promote eco-friendly practices. By choosing accommodations that prioritize sustainability, you can contribute to the preservation of this beautiful island destination for future generations to enjoy.

In conclusion, beyond the luxurious resorts and tourist hotspots lies a world of hidden gems waiting to be explored in the Maldives. From embracing authentic Maldivian culture on local islands to diving into vibrant coral reefs and embarking on island hopping adventures, off-the-beaten-path experiences offer a deeper understanding of this tropical paradise. Remember to support sustainable tourism initiatives and leave only footprints behind as you uncover the secrets of Maldives Island.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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Shark Diving Trips in Maldives

Best of Maldives Liveaboard

The Best of Maldives itineraries are a firm favourite amongst divers of all abilities, with a choice of vessels and durations. Highlights include manta cleaning stations, whale shark encounters and mesmerising drift dives. Find Out More

• Destination : Maldives
• When to go : Jan - Dec
• Duration inc. flights : 9 days
• Price inc. flights : From £ 2,595 pp
• Trip type : Liveaboard Group trip

Maldives Whale Shark Extravaganza

Experience the camaraderie, exceptional diving and megafauna encounters on our small group departure to the Maldives’ South Ari Atoll. Based at the Maldives’ smallest dive resort, this is a chance to relax, unwind and dive. Find Out More

• Duration exc. flights : 8 days
• Price exc. flights : From £ 2,795 pp
• Trip type : Group trip

Southern Maldives Liveaboard

Escape the crowds to the southern Atolls of the Maldives for an exceptional liveaboard experience with an air of discovery and plenty of shark encounters, including grey reef, hammerhead and silky. Find Out More

• When to go : Jan - Mar
• Duration inc. flights : 10 days
• Price inc. flights : From £ 3,795 pp
• Trip type : Liveaboard trip

Baa & Raa Atolls Liveaboard

Visit these legendary Maldivian atolls by liveaboard between August and October, when they become a playground for feeding manta rays and whale sharks, putting on a spectacular show for visitors at Hanifaru Bay. Find Out More

• When to go : Aug - Oct
• Price inc. flights : From £ 3,195 pp

Maldives Dive Safari

Explore world-class dive sites from the comfort of a liveaboard, followed by a few days relaxation in a resort on North Malé Atoll. Highlights include manta ray and whale shark encounters in the central atolls. Find Out More

• Duration inc. flights : 13 days
• Price inc. flights : From £ 2,845 pp

Ari Atoll Diving Experience

Divers return again and again to the popular dive sites of the South Ari Atoll, Maldives, for photo opportunities of healthy reefs, prolific marine life and large pelagic encounters including turtles, sharks and rays. Find Out More

• Price inc. flights : From £ 3,095 pp
• Trip type : Tailor-made trip idea

Dive Baa Atoll

Dive away from the crowds in the Baa Atoll, home to only a handful of resorts. The diversity of marine life is incredible and sightings of manta rays and whale sharks are common in season. Find Out More

• When to go : May - Oct

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Shark Bay Trip

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Be more adventurous, Take part in this amazing snorkeling trip with lots of sharks around you while you in the sea.

• Snorkel with life size nurse sharks and giant trevallies
• Visit amazingly beautiful Fulidhoo Island, take and island tour and see giant stingrays at the beach.
• Snorkel with hundreds of dolphin while our photographer captures your special moments.
• Visit to the natural walk way like set of sand banks where you can enjoy at our delicious picnic lunch.

Trip includes complimentary underwater photography and videography, a picnic lunch with fruits and soft drinks, snorkeling gears, life jackets, beach towels and bottled water.

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Whale Shark Excursion

Vilamendhoo offers a trove of ocean adventures, while it is one of the top resorts for diving in the Maldives, it is also one of the best places in the world to discover and snorkel with whale sharks. Vilamendhoo’s Whale Shark Excursion gives you the chance to swim with and even photograph these majestic creatures.

Whale sharks are the largest fish in the world and can reach up to 12 metres in length and 20 tons in weight. They are filter feeding, pelagic fish that can dive deeper than 1,000 metres and mainly feed on plankton.

They tend to favour the western side of the Indian Ocean archipelago from May to December and then move to the eastern waters during January to April. Although not guaranteed, they can be seen around the South Ari Atoll all year round.

This excursion is for swimmers only. Snorkelling equipment is available for rent from Vilamendoo’s Euro-Divers Dive Centre and purchase from our Gift Shop .

The Whale Shark Excursion is scheduled every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday 0830 – 1300.

Price: AIP US$100 / FB US$110 per person, with a minimum of 6 persons required; maximum number of guests allowed will vary based on safe physical distancing requirements.

The minimum age is 12, all children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent.

[Related: Snorkelling and Diving with Whale Sharks in Vilamendhoo » ]

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Best places to dive with sharks in the maldives.

Mar 17, 2023

The Maldives is famed for its tranquil tropical setting and spectacular resorts, but below the waves awaits a very different experience. The beautiful atolls provide a backdrop for a variety of marine life, with current-swept channels and isolated reefs packed with exciting pelagic species - including sharks. And while sharks are common throughout this incredible diving destination, there’s a handful of iconic atolls and stand-out dive sites which are not to be missed by any shark enthusiast. 

So keep reading to discover the best places to dive with sharks in the Maldives. 

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Reef sharks and more

Rising out of the ocean depths, the small atoll of Rasdhoo has found fame as a destination of choice for those in search of sharks - including chance encounters with hammerheads - as well as spectacular dive experiences with other species such as manta rays and schooling fish. Combined with beautiful beaches and the welcoming community on the local island, Rasdhoo easily ranks as one of the Maldives’ best shark diving destinations.

You’ll start the day with a dawn trip to Hammerhead Point in search of the sharks out in the blue, then follow it up with a dive at Rasdhoo Madivaru - arguably the Atoll’s most famous site. Here a horse-shoe shaped ridge is patrolled by grey reef sharks, whitetip reef sharks and schools of eagle rays while an expansive sandy bowl is home to whiptail rays, marble rays and patches of garden eels.

Throw in the school of large barracuda and divers have all the ingredients for a near-perfect Maldivian dive experience. Between November and April, manta rays can also be encountered at a cleaning station. To complete an amazing day, you can simply sit back and watch these gentle giants as they hover and cleaner wrasse pick their skin and gills clean.

Best time to dive: January - April

Complete guide to the best diving in the Maldives. Explore the atolls, seasons, and pro tips in this free 37 page destination guide.

Grey and whitetip reef sharks

Despite its proximity to the international airport, South Male is a relatively quiet atoll , with just three local islands and a scattering of resorts. This atoll is often touted as one of the best for budget and solo travellers, with easy access and a tranquil, yet sociable atmosphere. The diving focuses on the channels in the east of the atoll wall, all of which offer plenty of action. 

Kandooma Thila - also known as Cocoa Thila - is one of the most popular sites on the atoll’s eastern edge, and is among the most famous dives in the Maldives. The thila here sits in the middle of the channel, with the reef below acting as a cleaning station for manta rays. But, it’s not just mantas that frequent this site - grey and whitetip reef sharks also patrol beneath the waves, parting schools of barracuda, jacks, red bass and trevally.

Further south, the protected Guraidhoo Channel provides exciting encounters with a range of marine life, including bannerfish, fusiliers, and rainbow runners, as well as trevallies, tuna, rays, and a friendly Napoleon wrasse. Amongst the impressive biodiversity here, divers will also likely spot yet more grey and whitetip reef sharks.

Whale sharks

South Ari is one of the more developed atolls in the Maldives , but that doesn’t stop it impressing visitors with its breathtaking natural beauty - and it certainly hasn’t deterred the marine life. 

Whale sharks are South Ari’s marquee attraction, with reliable sightings year round. In fact, the South Ari Marine Protected Area that covers the southern tip of the atoll, boasts near-guaranteed whale shark sightings. Organised tours cruise the reef searching for these sharks as they filter-feed on plankton near the surface of the water. Once a shark has been spotted, guests can enter the water with snorkels and swim alongside. 

While this entire protected area offers high chances of seeing a whale shark, the islands of Maamagili and Dhigurah offer some of the most consistent encounters. And, although whale sharks can be seen year-round, sightings do vary with the seasons. From December to April, during the northeast monsoon, the whale sharks tend to be seen more to the west, before moving over to the east between May and November, during the southwest monsoon.

Best time to dive: Year-round

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Facing the open ocean, the eastern side of Vaavu Atoll delivers some truly exciting diving - even by Maldives’ standards, these channels are very special indeed. The strong tidal currents through these narrow cuts in the reef create ideal conditions for thrilling shark dives, and you can encounter large numbers of grey reef and whitetip reef sharks congregating amidst swirling schools of barracuda, snapper and trevally.

The signature site is Fotteyo Kandu which is considered one of the best shark dive sites in the Maldives. The narrow channel has swim-throughs, small caves and large overhangs to explore, as well as a drop-off covered in colourful soft corals, while at the mouth of the channel, large numbers of grey and whitetip reef sharks, and large schools of trevally and sweetlips can be encountered.

Nearby Miyaru Kandu, which translates to ‘Shark Channel’ certainly lives up to its name and large schools of grey reef sharks, whitetip reef sharks, plus tuna and Napoleon wrasse, are all commonly seen. Last, but not least, Kunaavashi Kandu or Second Channel is another incredible site that has beautiful soft corals, squadrons of spotted eagle rays and big marbled stingrays.

Grey reef sharks, whale sharks, and more

Huvadhoo is one of the largest and most secluded atolls in the Maldives . Lying almost 50-kilometres from its nearest neighbour, Huvadhoo’s outer reefs are swept by powerful open-ocean currents that flow back and forth through the surrounding open ocean, luring large pelagics in from the blue. And, as one of the deepest and most expansive lagoons in the Maldives, these waters offer plenty of space for up to 13 species of shark.

The atoll’s channels are a hotspot for shark encounters, with lucky divers often encountering dozens of whitetips, blacktips, and grey reef sharks on a single dive. Unusually, both silkies and silvertips can also often be spotted in the current, while leopard sharks and nurse sharks take shelter below. This isolated atoll is also the only part of the Maldives where spinner sharks have been seen. Whilst similar to blacktips in appearance, these interesting sharks are known for performing acrobatic leaps as they strike prey close to the surface. 

Incredibly, there’s even more shark diving on offer in Huvadhoo, with the largest of them all making appearances between January and April. Whale shark encounters here are almost always conducted at night, with vessels attracting the sharks by shining spotlights on the water. Gliding through the inky darkness beside the biggest fish in the ocean is an experience you’ll never forget.

Tiger sharks and thresher sharks

Nicknamed the Maldivian Galapagos, Fuvahmulah Atoll is one of Asia’s hottest shark diving locations - book your trip today if you want to dive with tiger sharks, hammerhead sharks, thresher sharks and more!

Fuvahmulah’s relatively unknown dive scene, unique location and isolation make it an ideal destination if you are looking for exhilarating diving in the Maldives. The atoll’s famous tiger sharks can be seen every day, but you’ll also have the chance to encounter hammerhead sharks, thresher sharks, silvertip sharks, oceanic manta rays, big schools of barracudas, yellowfin tuna, bonitos, sailfish and even Mola mola and pilot whales!

Tiger Zoos resident sharks are in no way aggressive, but we recommend that you book with a reputable and professional dive operator. Fuvahmulah Dive School’s is the perfect choice and their experienced guides will ensure your encounter is both safe and responsible.

Best time to dive: December - March

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Everything you need to know about these wonderful creatures in a FREE 50 page guide. Read online or download today!

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Maldives best six places to dive with sharks

Home > Blog > Maldives best six places to dive with sharks

The Maldives is famed for its palm-fringed desert islands and luxurious resorts, but underwater, beyond those turquoise lagoons you’ll encounter a very different experience.

The beautiful atolls provide a backdrop for a variety of marine life, with current-swept channels and isolated reefs packed with exciting pelagic species – including sharks. While sharks are common throughout the Maldives, there’s a handful of iconic atolls and stand-out dive sites which are not to be missed by any shark enthusiast.

1. South Ari – whale sharks

Whale sharks are South Ari’s main attraction, with reliable sightings year round. In fact, the South Ari Marine Protected Area that covers the southern tip of the atoll, boasts near-guaranteed whale shark sightings.

While the entire protected area offers high chances of seeing a whale shark, the islands of Maamagili and Dhigurah offer some of the most consistent encounters. While they can be seen year-round, sightings vary with the seasons. From December to April, during the northeast monsoon, the whale sharks tend to be seen more to the west, before moving over to the east between May and November, during the southwest monsoon.

Best time to dive: Year-round

2. South Male – grey and whitetip reef sharks

Despite its proximity to the international airport, South Male is a relatively quiet atoll, with just three local islands, a good choice for budget and solo travellers. The diving focuses on the channels in the east of the atoll wall, all of which offer plenty of action.

Kandooma Thila – also known as Cocoa Thila – on the atoll’s eastern edge and is one of the most famous dives in the Maldives. The thila is in the middle of the channel, with the reef below acting as a cleaning station for manta rays. It’s patrolled by grey and whitetip reef sharks, parting schools of barracuda, jacks, red bass and trevally.

Further south, the Guraidhoo Channel provides encounters with a range of marine life, including bannerfish, fusiliers and rainbow runners, as well as trevallies, tuna, rays as well as grey and whitetip reef sharks.

Best time to dive: January – April

3. Rasdhoo – reef sharks and hammerheads

The small atoll of Rasdhoo offers chance encounters with hammerheads – as well as spectacular dive experiences mantas and schooling fish.

Start the day with a dawn trip to Hammerhead Point in search of the sharks out in the blue, then follow it up with a dive at Rasdhoo Madivaru, the Atoll’s most famous site. This horse-shoe shaped ridge is patrolled by grey reef sharks, whitetip reef sharks and schools of eagle rays while an expansive sandy bowl is home to whiptail rays, marble rays and patches of garden eels. Between November and April, mantas can also be encountered at a cleaning station.

Best time to dive: January – April

4. Vaavu – grey and whitetip reef sharks

Facing the open ocean, the eastern side of Vaavu Atoll delivers exciting diving – even by Maldivian standards. Strong tidal currents through these narrow cuts in the reef create ideal conditions for thrilling shark dives, and you can encounter large numbers of grey reef and whitetip reef sharks amidst swirling schools of barracuda, snapper, and trevally.

The signature site is Fotteyo Kandu, one of the best shark dive sites in the Maldives. The narrow channel has swim-throughs, small caves and large overhangs to explore, as well as a drop-off covered in colourful soft corals, while at the mouth of the channel, you’ll encounter large numbers of grey and whitetip reef sharks, along with schools of trevally and sweetlips.

At nearby Miyaru Kandu, which means ‘Shark Channel’ large schools of grey reef sharks, whitetip reef sharks, plus tuna and Napoleon wrasse, are all commonly seen.

5. Huvadhoo – grey reef sharks, whale sharks, nurse sharks and more

Huvadhoo is one of the largest and most remote atolls in the Maldives. Lying almost 50km from its nearest neighbour. The outer reefs are swept by strong open-ocean currents, luring large pelagics in from the blue. And, as one of the deepest and most expansive lagoons in the Maldives, there is space for up to 13 species of shark.

The atoll’s channels are a hotspot for shark encounters, with divers often encountering dozens of whitetips, blacktips, and grey reef sharks on a single dive. Unusually, both silkies and silvertips can also often be spotted in the current, while leopard sharks and nurse sharks take shelter below, and this is the only part of the Maldives where spinner sharks have been seen. Like blacktips in appearance, these curious sharks are known for performing acrobatic leaps as they strike prey close to the surface.

Whale sharks visit the atoll between January and April, with encounters mainly at night, with vessels attracting the sharks by shining spotlights on the water. Gliding through the inky darkness beside the biggest fish in the ocean is an experience you’ll never forget.

6. Fuvahmulah – tiger sharks and thresher sharks

Fuvahmulah’s famous tiger sharks can be seen every day, but you’ll also have the chance to encounter hammerhead sharks, thresher sharks, silvertip sharks, oceanic manta rays, big schools of barracudas, yellowfin tuna, bonitos, sailfish and even Mola mola and pilot whales.

Best time to dive: December – March

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Shark Adventure In the Maldives

SWIM WITH REEF SHARKS

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Snorkel with some of the ocean's sleekest predators - white tip and blacktip reef sharks, on reefs just a 15-minute boat ride from the resort. Reef sharks are harmless to humans, but their long agile bodies and lightning-quick reflexes make them a feared predator to smaller fish. There will be a short talk on shark conservation in the local area, after which guests will depart for the reef. Private excursions can also be arranged by speaking to the Marine Sports Centre. 

What's included

Price : US$75 per person (private excursions start at US$500 for up to six people)  Duration : Two hours  Time : Click here  for Schedule of Activities Inclusions : Snorkelling equipment, guide, towel and water  Level of difficulty : Moderate What to wear/bring : Swimwear, sunscreen and underwater camera

Terms & Conditions

Guests may enhance their experience by snorkelling with our resident marine biologist, for an additional US$150.  Participants must be able to swim.  Children under the age of 12 will be accepted at the Marine Sports Centre's discretion, and must be accompanied by a guardian or parent.  This activity is subject to weather conditions and water currents.  Reservations should be made at least a day in advance

T. Ext. 3 (In-house guests) T.  +960 664 1818 E.  [email protected]

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Maldives Shark Diving: The Top 7 Dive Sites to Visit in 2023

With amazing visibility and warm temperatures year round there is never a bad time to pack your dive bag and head to the shark paradise that is the Maldives. The Maldives archipelago is not only idyllic to look at, but it is also bustling with diverse marine species, including 26 different shark species!

Amongst the sharks found there are thresher sharks, whale sharks, nurse sharks, and tiger sharks. It is one of the best places to dive with sharks and offers something for every experience level.

Diving with sharks is a thrilling and memorable experience that most scuba divers hope to have at some point in their life. If you are one of those divers, explore our top seven Maldives shark diving experiences below and start planning your once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

1. Maaya Thila, North Ari Atoll

You can find whitetip reef sharks at several dive locations throughout the Maldives, but Maaya Thila offers one of the best dives with them. It is a popular spot for night dives, during which you can see these small sharks at their most active - hunting!

Thanks to their white-tipped dorsal fins, it is easy to spot whitetip reef sharks, and they can be found in Maldivian waters year round. This dive site can be accessed by beginner scuba divers, but the strong currents make it best suited to more experienced divers.

Many new divers are scared to scuba dive in case they come face to face with a shark. Check out these 6 Common Worries of First Time Scuba Divers .

2. madivaru, rasdhoo atoll.

Rasdhoo Atoll offers the incredible opportunity to spot hammerhead sharks . These sharks can reach up to 3.7 meters (12 feet) long and are instantly recognizable by their unique hammer-shaped head.

The best time to see hammerhead sharks is on an early morning dive where you hover at depth and wait for them to pass by. This dive site is suited to confident, advanced divers who are ready for the excitement of seeing large sharks in the wild.

Top tip: Visit during the winter-spring season from December to April to find the largest numbers of hammerheads at Madivaru.

3. Kandooma Thila, South Male Atoll

Kandooma Thila is one of the world’s top dive sites for shark spotting and hosts numerous gray reef sharks. These medium-sized sharks are one of the most common species of shark and can live for up to 25 years or more.

As well as gray reef sharks, Kandooma Thila also hosts whitetip reef sharks and occasional passing whale sharks . There are plenty of caverns and overhangs to explore at this dive site, and an abundance of marine species to encounter.

Due to the strong currents, this dive site is suitable for advanced divers only.

There are many amazing places to dive around Asia. Check out this Dive guide for the Gili Islands .

4. maamigili, south ari atoll.

Maamigili hosts one of the best Maldives shark diving experiences. This protected marine area is famous for its whale shark encounters. These gentle giants are the largest species of shark and pose no threat to divers.

Scuba divers of all abilities can enjoy this dive site and there are many other large sea animals to meet, including charming sea turtles and reef sharks. Just make sure you pack your camera to capture all of those dive highlights!

Top tip: December to April are the best months for spotting whale sharks at Maamigili, but they can be found in other atolls throughout the year.

5. Alimatha, Vaavu Atoll

Nurse sharks come in a variety of colors and love to snuggle up together in groups during the daytime. But if you visit Alimatha at night, you can see nurse sharks at their most active.

This dive site is renowned for having a large population of sharks, with up to 100 sharks in the area at one time! It is an unmissable highlight of Maldives shark diving, and it is suitable for everyone.

This site is shallow, so beginners and advanced divers can enjoy it together, though currents can sometimes be strong. Nurse sharks can be found at Alimatha all year, and you might also spot blacktip reef sharks and rays there.

Do you love marine life trivia? Here are 15 Amazing Facts about Jellyfish .

6. fotteyo kandu, vaavu atoll.

Fotteyo Kandu is a mesmerizing dive spot with sea caves, swim-throughs, diverse species of coral, and no shortage of sharks – including blacktip reef sharks. It is one of the best dive sites in the Maldives .

Blacktip reef sharks are not only recognizable for their charcoal-tipped fins, but also for spinning out of the water when hunting. Advanced divers can meet these sharks at Fotteyo Kandu, plus silvertips , gray reef sharks, and even hammerheads if they are lucky.

Top tip: Strong currents add to the exhilaration of diving at Fotteyo Kandu. Make sure you are comfortable with currents or upskill with the SSI Waves, Tides and Currents Specialty before you dive there.

7. Tiger Zoo, Fuvahmulah

Diving at Fuvahmulah includes one of the best-known of all Maldives shark diving experiences, and the name of this dive site gives a big clue as to why it is so popular. Fuvahmulah has a resident population of tiger sharks.

Named because of their striped exterior, tiger sharks have rough skin and one of the most varied diets of all shark species. They enjoy scavenging near the harbor where this dive site begins.

If you are a new diver and want to go diving with tiger sharks , this is the place for you. Tiger Zoo is accessible for beginners to see the sharks in the shallows. It also has a drop-off for more advanced divers who want to continue on to explore the depths.

You are almost guaranteed to spot tiger sharks year-round at Tiger Zoo. Dive deeper and you might also see thresher sharks.

SSI Shark Ecology Specialty

If you love sharks as much as we do, check out the SSI Shark Ecology Specialty ! This program will teach you all about shark behavior, how to act around sharks in the water, and what has made these ancient creatures so misunderstood and feared.

If you are nervous about diving with sharks (like many people are), this course can ease your mind with knowledge and understanding of what makes sharks tick.

So, which dive site will you visit first to find sharks in the Maldives?

START EXPLORING: GET CERTIFIED AS A SHARK ECOLOGY DIVER TODAY.

3N: WHALE SHARK & MANTA PACKAGE – US$460p.p.

1 local island, all accommodation, daily breakfast / all meal options, airport meet & greet service, return two-way speedboat transfers, whale shark snorkelling excursion,   manta ray snorkelling excursion, on sale – book now, description, additional information.

• Reviews (3)

This 3 night / 4 day Maldives Whale Shark & Manta Package is designed for adventure lovers on a budget who wish to explore one of Maldives’ most picturesque islands, plus the opportunity to discover the underwater world of Maldives in the protected marine park of South Ari Atoll. The package is designed to be as budget friendly as possible. Upgrade your package by adding additional nights, excursions or upgrading your room category. Indulge Maldives also proudly partners with Bliss Dhigurah & can offer an upgraded package at the property upon request.

3 Night Maldives Whale Sharks Package is inclusive of:

• 3 nights Standard or Deluxe Room at White Sand Dhigurah Hotel (local island)
• Daily breakfast, lunch & dinner options
• Whale Shark snorkelling excursion
• Manta Ray snorkelling excursion
• Return two-way airport transfers – 2hr speedboat or 20min domestic flight option
• Airport Meet & Greet

WHO IS THIS TRIP FOR?

Active travellers & ocean lovers on a budget who prefer to travel Maldives independently, yet enjoy the freedom of having a flexible self-guided Maldives holiday itinerary to follow. Travellers will enjoy staying in hotels on one of Maldives most renowned local islands. Snorkelling excursions take place in a small group setting with highly experienced local guides. Must be confident at swimming.

ACCOMMODATION

3 nights accommodation in a Standard or Deluxe Balcony Room at White Sand Dhigurah , Dhigurah Island, South Ari Atoll. Room upgrades are available with the highest room category being the King Jacuzzi Suite with Balcony (please enquire). Indulge Maldives can also create you the same package at our other partner hotel,  Bliss Dhigurah (for a slightly higher supplement).

ABOUT DHIGURAH ISLAND

Dhigurah Island is located 2hrs south of Velana International Airport via speedboat, and is the last island of South Ari Atoll. Dhigurah is referred to as ‘Long Island’ by locals, as it stretches almost 3km in length and is only 250m wide. It is one of the most picturesque islands in all of Maldives. The surrounding waters of Dhigurah Island are renowned for their abundance of sea life including whale sharks, manta rays, turtles and large corals. It is the one location in Maldives where whale sharks & manta rays are sighted year round.

♥    DAY 1:   11am or 4pm 2hr speedboat transfer from Airport to Dhigurah Island, where you will spend the next 3 nights / 4 days. These are the only daily speedboat transfer times to Dhigurah Island. There is an option to upgrade to a 20-minute domestic flight transfer from the Airport to Dhigurah for +$120p.p. one-way. Flights depart regularly on the hour throughout the day. The 20min flight journey will be followed by a short 15 minute speedboat transfer from Maamingili Airport across to Dhigurah Island. Upon your arrival at Dhigurah Island, a hotel representative will greet you at Dhigurah Harbour & assist you with your luggage & transport to the hotel. Check into your lovely room at White Sands Dhigurah and relax!

♥    DAY 2 :  Morning whale shark snorkelling trip. Afternoon – explore Dhigurah Island on your own terms.

♥    DAY 3 :  Morning manta ray snorkelling excursion. Afternoon – explore Dhigurah Island on your own terms.

♥    DAY 4 :  6:30am or 3pm Dhigurah to Airport speedboat (only daily speedboat times from Dhigurah Island) – 2hrs. There is an option to upgrade to domestic flight transfer from Dhigurah to Malé Airport at more suitable time during the day. Domestic flight upgrade is US$120p.p. each-way. Flights depart hourly and the flight journey is 20 minutes travel time. Standard check out time is 12pm on the day of departure.

This trip can be extended by adding additional nights.

3 reviews for 3N: WHALE SHARK & MANTA PACKAGE – US$460p.p.

Simona Ondrejkovicova – December 18, 2019

Our holiday at Dhigurah via Indulge Maldives was perfect. Kristie took care of everything, so we could enjoy our holiday. When you need something Kristie is available all the time and helps you with everything (accomodation, flights, excursions, etc.). White Sand Hotel at Dhigurah was great. STaff very kind. It was our best trip ever!!! We loved Dhigurah. Thank you Indulge Maldives!!

Sarah and Sara – October 19, 2019

We had a fantastic time on the all inc whale shark and manta ray package on Dhigurah Island. All our needs were catered for, great food, great tours. White Sands was meters from pristine beach which couldn’t have been more beautiful. Kristie was fantastic, she answered all our questions and arranged our package without a problem. She even arranged our transfers to another local island for a different part of our trip which made life so much easier. We can’t recommend Indulge Maldives enough and the manta and whale shark package 🙂

Tricia & Etienné – August 9, 2019

We found Indulge Maldives online while we were looking for the best island for us to visit. Kristie was very responsive and took the time to answer all of our questions. She was able to find the best island to fit our needs and expectations. We went on Dhigurah island for 4 nights and we had such a wonderful time! Thank you so much Kristie for taking care of everything for us ! We highly recommend Indulge Maldives!

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